Serpent Stories, Aboriginal Style

Looking for a new story-telling inspiration? Try this speckled drawing technique, used by aboriginal artists in Australia.

1. Imagine a story to tell your best friend. Who is the main character? Where does the story take place? What happens in it?

2. Sketch your main character on paper with Crayola® Colored Pencils. Your character might be your brother, sister, a pet snake (serpent), or an imaginary alien from outer space--whatever you like! Make your drawing at least as large as your hand. With Crayola Washable Markers, trace your pencil drawing.

3. Cover your work area with newspaper. In a style similar to aboriginal artists in Australia, use markers and Crayola Washable Kid's Paint and Paint Brushes to fill the main character with patterns of dots and lines.

4. Fill in the background, your story setting, with more patterns. Use the drawing to help tell your story to friends and family.

Adult supervision is required for any arts & crafts project. Observe children closely and intervene as necessary to prevent potential safety problems and ensure appropriate use of arts and crafts materials. Some craft items, particularly beads and buttons, are potential choking hazards for young children. Avoid use of such small parts with children younger than 3 years. Craft items such as scissors, push pins and chenille sticks may have sharp points or edges. Avoid use of materials with sharp points by children younger than 4 years. Read all manufacturers' safety warnings before using arts and craft supplies.

Crayola Washable Paints—Not for use as body/face paint.

Crafts

crayola supplies

• Paint Brushes
• Colored Pencils
• Markers
• Washable Kid's Paint
• Giant Marker and Watercolor Pad

household supplies

• recycled newspaper
• paper towels
• container(s) of water

"My kids create stories about school trips. They send them to their Nana, who treasures them."
Maria M., mom of 8- and 10-year-olds.

"Our daughter saves her stories and art in a notebook. What a varied collection she'll have when she grows up."
Sarah and Jim O., parents of 11-year-old.

The aboriginal people of Australia play the didgeridoo, a long wooden flute, that may be the oldest musical instrument. Its sounds resemble animals, wings flapping, thumping feet, wind, thunder, trees creaking, and water running.